Uncertainty could derail Euro offshore growth, warns EWEA

EUROPE: Market uncertainty in Europe could lead to problems financing offshore projects and derail the growth in the sector, according to EWEA.

Only one European offshore project has reached financial close in 2013, said EWEA policy director Justin Wilkes. "This, together with a lack of orders being placed for offshore wind turbines, substructures and components, reflects the regulatory uncertainty in key offshore markets including Germany and the UK. It highlights the significant challenges faced by the offshore wind sector," he added.

The only project to have reached a financial close this year is Germany's 288MW Butendiek project.

However, according to EWEA first-half 2013 report into the European offshore market, grid connected capacity is up around 30% compared with the same period in 2012. This equates to 277 turbines (1,045MW) installed.

The largest proportion of this growth is in the UK, which installed 513MW. Next in line is Denmark on 352MW and Germany on 105MW.

In terms of manufacturers, Siemens continues to dominate the market, accounting for 83% of grid connected capacity over the period. Next is Bard on 10% with Repower following on 7%.

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